#United Arab Emirates #Sharjah #A.R. Rahman #Tanweer Festival #Anoushka Shankar

Tanweer Festival 2025: A Cultural Confluence in the Desert

The Tanweer Festival is making a grand return to the stunning landscape of Mleiha, Sharjah, from the 21st to the 23rd of November 2025. This much-anticipated event is set to bring together an impressive lineup of 183 musicians and creators hailing from 23 different countries, celebrating the universal language of music and the arts.

An Unforgettable Experience Awaits

This year's festival is particularly significant as it underscores Sharjah's role as a vibrant international platform for music and cultural exchange. The festival will feature a total of 28 unique performances spread across four carefully designed stages, each curated to provide an immersive experience that resonates with the audience.

Among the headlining acts are some of the most celebrated names in the music industry. Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman, renowned sitarist Anoushka Shankar, and the celebrated Tunisian-American singer-songwriter Emel Mathlouthi will grace the festival stage. The lineup also includes Palestinian vocalist Aya Khalaf, Iranian musicians Sohrab Pournazeri and Sahar Boroujerdi, as well as Lebanese composer Hanan Halwany, who is recognized for her innovative fusion of Eastern and Western musical styles. Together, these artists embody the festival's essence by showcasing music's power to bridge cultural divides and rejuvenate traditions.

Thematic Focus Inspired by Rumi

Inspired by the theme “What you seek is seeking you”, which draws from the wisdom of the famous poet Rumi, the Tanweer Festival invites attendees to delve into art and spirituality against the backdrop of Mleiha, a location recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rich historical significance. This theme encourages a reflective exploration, prompting audiences to engage with their innermost thoughts through creative expression and cultural appreciation.

Engaging Programming and Unique Offerings

The festival promises a diverse array of programming that caters to all attendees. It will feature nine workshops led by visionary facilitators, allowing participants to engage creatively. Additionally, eleven large-scale art installations created by both local and international artists will adorn the festival grounds, providing platforms for artistic dialogue and expression. Craft enthusiasts can look forward to a market showcasing 14 artisans, offering a glimpse into the region's rich craftsmanship and artistry.

Food lovers will also be thrilled with 17 culinary experiences, highlighting the region's gastronomic offerings and encouraging cultural exchange through cuisine. Added to this are nine outdoor activities such as stargazing, desert hikes, and archaeological tours, designed to connect visitors with the area's natural and historical landscape, enriching their overall festival experience.

A Call to the Global Community

The Tanweer Festival stands as an invitation to global audiences to witness a seamless fusion of tradition, innovation, and creativity under the sun of Sharjah’s desert. By bringing together such a diverse group of artists and creators, the festival emphasizes the importance of cultural connectivity and the role of the arts in promoting understanding among different cultures.

In summary, the Tanweer Festival 2025 promises to be a landmark event that will foster a deep appreciation for music, art, and cultural dialogue within the unique setting of the Mleiha Desert. This celebration of global artistry is not to be missed!

Stay tuned for more updates and details as the festival approaches.